Southgate says England fans can intimidate Italy but not boo anthem
England manager Gareth Southgate says the team's fans should remain respectful and not boo its national anthem ahead of the Euro 2020 final.
Published : Jul 11, 2021 11:22 IST
England manager Gareth Southgate said the team's fans can try to intimidate Italy but should remain respectful and not boo its national anthem ahead of the European Championship final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
A section of England fans booed when Denmark's national anthem was played before their semifinal meeting. Jeers were also heard when the German anthem was played at Wembley when England beat Joachim Loew's side in the round of 16.
European football's governing body UEFA fined England's Football Association EUR 30,000 (USD 35,619) after a laser pointer was shone at Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.
"It's important that our fans always respect the opposition and we know that in fact when we play abroad and fans boo our anthem it probably inspires us even more, so I don't think it will help the team," Southgate told reporters on Saturday.
"I think we can intimidate the team with the booing during the game, but it's different for the anthem. I think we should be respectful."
Former England international Gary Lineker made a similar request to the country's fans last week.
"If you're lucky enough to get a ticket for the final, please, please don't boo the Italian anthem," Lineker tweeted on Thursday. "A/ It's an absolute belter and worth listening to. B/ It's bloody rude, disrespectful and utterly classless."
England has not won a major tournament since its solitary success at the 1966 World Cup and the country is gripped with anticipation of ending that wait on Sunday.